The Cleveland Cavaliers extend their win streak to seven after a narrow win over the Charlotte Hornets.
All grades are based on our usual expectations for each player.
32 points, 4 assists, 3 rebounds, 2 steals
Mitchell started this game 4-15. But, as we’ve seen all season, Mitchell turned it on when the Cavs needed him most. He shot 5-8 the rest of the way and finished with his 100th 30-point game as a Cavalier.
18 points, 8 assists, 3 rebounds, 1 steal
Harden is dishing the rock with efficiency since joining the Cavs. He had another 8 assists tonight as the Cavalier offense feels more potent than it’s been all season with him at the helm. We only wish he could have grabbed a few more rebounds or been sharper off the ball defensively.
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26 points, 14 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 block
Allen hasn’t let up on any opponent for weeks now. He put his head down and attacked the paint over and over again tonight as the Hornets didn’t have enough bodies to stop him. If he hadn’t hauled in 14 rebounds, the Cavs would have lost this one. Bravo, Allen. This aggression has been a joy to watch.
Tyson’s role has changed significantly now that Harden is here. That means we’ll likely have to adjust how we grade him. He simply isn’t getting as many opportunities. That said, Cleveland could have used a better effort on the glass.
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4 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals
I’m convinced that Ellis can clone himself and appear multiple places at once. That’s the only way to explain some of the defensive plays he comes up with.
2 points, 5 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, 2 blocks
Bryant had some highs and lows. His block in the third quarter was electric, but he might have been a step too slow for a fast-paced matchup like this.
8 points, 3 assists, 3 steals
Schroder continues to be a pest. He came up with two big steals in the second half and has given the Cavs bench an edge that they’ve been missing.
10 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists
Merrill had more success tonight. He hit 2-of-4 three-point attempts and had a nice backdoor cut early in the first half.
8 points, 4 rebounds, 1 steal
Wade hit consecutive three-pointers in the fourth quarter to close this out. He hasn’t missed a shot since returning from the All-Star break.